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Biotechnology and genetically modified organisms

For centuries living organisms have been manipulated using traditional techniques such as fermentation, classical plant breeding and artificial insemination. The most significant molecular biotechnology has been recombinant DNA or 'gene transfer' technology. Traits such as herbicide resistance can be incorporated into crops to increase yields; hormones created to increase milk yield in cows; and microbes engineered to clean up oil-spills. In genetically modified organisms their genetic makeup has been altered by the insertion or removal of small fragments of genes or genetic material (e.g. DNA, RNA, plasmids) in order to create or enhance desirable characteristics.

Modern biotechnology has far reaching applications for agriculture, chemical processing, human and animal health, and environmental management. However, the release of genetically modified organisms into the environment raises many questions about safety, ecological and agricultural impacts, genetic diversity, socio-economic effects, and the appropriateness of using genetically engineered organisms in particular applications. Many concerns relate to the nature of the risks involved, which are often difficult to predict and determine. If not controlled and monitored, genetic engineering risks triggering a cascade of uncertain effects and reducing natural biodiversity.

The South African biotechnology industry is relatively well-developed, especially with regard to traditional technologies such as alcohol fermentation and bioleaching. Considerable attention has additionally been given to developing the research capacity for conventional and recombinant DNA technologies, although the commercial application of technologies has not developed to the same extent. To date, there have been five field trials with genetically modified organisms permitted in South Africa. The need to regulate the industry to minimize and avoid adverse impacts is widely recognized by both industry and other stakeholders.